Memorial to honor fallen firefighters

Firefighters and dignitaries from across Tennessee will be in attendance for the long-awaited groundbreaking ceremony for the Tennessee Fallen Firefighter Memorial, according to a Fire Service press release.

Located on the grounds of the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy in Deason, the TFFM will honor the many men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities and neighbors.

Fundraising efforts for the TFFM began five years ago with the Tennessee Ultimate Firefighter "TUFF" Challenge, which is held each September. Since that time, a committee was formed from fire service organizations across the state to continue the efforts of raising money and public awareness. A major fundraising initiative took place during Fire Prevention Week and through October to raise the final amount needed for Phase One of the memorial.

The Tennessee Fallen Firefighter Memorial will be a monument to the spirit, commitment, and sacrifice of those firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty and will provide the citizens of Tennessee with a place to honor the fallen and to inspire young men and women to follow in their brave footsteps.

"A committee of very dedicated people has worked very hard to get to this point," states Ed Kay, TFFM President and Sparta fire chief. "We are proud of what we have accomplished for our states' first responders and for the families of our fallen heroes."

On average, two firefighters perish each year in Tennessee. Records show that 76 firefighters have lost their lives in the line of duty from 1954 to 2007. Twenty-four firefighters lost their lives from 2000 to 2007. No firefighter fatalities were recorded for 2008.

An additional means of fundraising has been the purchase of bricks. Individuals, fire departments and companies have the option of having a brick inscribed, which will be installed in the walkway leading into the Circle of Honor, which will include the names of the fallen firefighters on bronze plaques.

Many companies have also stepped up to help with the construction. Hart Freeland and Roberts have donated and completed the conceptual drawings.

Companies such as IMI, Contec, Wright Paving, B&W Excavating, Haynes Services Electric, N&S Waterproofing, WASCO, Community High School Ag Class and American Constructors have donated times or services for the completion of Phase One.

The TFFM groundbreaking ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at 2161 Unionville-Deason Road.

State Fire Marshal and Commissioner Leslie Newman and other state and local officials will be in attendance.

ON THE WEB

For additional information, visit the TFFM web site at www.tnffmemorial.com.